18 of America’s Most Charming Small Towns for a Romantic Getaway
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, one of America’s best small towns may be just what you need. From the beaches of Florida to the mountains of Colorado, these towns offer a variety of activities and attractions that are perfect for couples. Here are eighteen of our favorites!
Tired of all the big city travel guides and want to slow things down in a charming small town?
We’ve been all over the U.S. of A, and out of the many small towns we’ve visited, we’ve narrowed it down to our top 18 favorites. So no, you don’t have to do all the researching yourself – we’ve done it all for you and have it all right here at your fingertips. No matter what kind of couple you are, we’ve got somewhere that you’re going to fall in love with.
Jump to:
- 1. Asheville, North Carolina
- 2. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
- 3. Charlottesville, Virginia
- 4. Charleston, South Carolina
- 5. Bar Harbor, Maine
- 6. Duluth, Minnesota
- 7. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
- 8. Frankenmuth, Michigan
- 9. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
- Tips for Your Romantic Small Town Getaway
- 10. Traverse City, Michigan
- 11. Healdsburg, California
- 12. Hood River, Oregon
- 13. Amelia Island, Florida
- 14. Aspen, Colorado
- 15. Montauk, New York
- 16. Taos, New Mexico
- 17. Woodstock, Vermont
- 18. Mackinac Island, Michigan
- Final Thoughts….
- More Romantic Getaways in the USA
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a picturesque mountain town in western North Carolina. It’s known for its vibrant arts scene, as well as its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Appalachian Trail. There are plenty of things to do in Asheville, from exploring the local shops and restaurants to visiting the Biltmore Estate.
Where to Stay: The Omni Grove Park Inn is a luxurious option, located just minutes from downtown Asheville. There is also the Aloft Asheville Downtown, which is a more affordable choice.
Date Night Ideas: Take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, or explore the historic Biltmore Estate. For a romantic dinner, head to The Market Place, which offers an upscale farm-to-table dining experience.
2. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small coastal town in central California. It’s known for its white-sand beaches, quaint shops, and art galleries. Carmel is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific Coast.
Where to Stay: The Cypress Inn is a popular choice for couples, offering views of Carmel Bay from its rooms and suites. The hotel offers a unique 20s feel in the style of decor and architecture.
Date Night Ideas: Take a walk along Ocean Avenue and window shop in the charming boutiques. You can also head to Carmel Valley for a romantic wine tasting at one of the many wineries.
3. Charlottesville, Virginia
Charlottesville is a small city located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s home to the University of Virginia, as well as several historical sites. Charlottesville is the perfect place for couples who enjoy outdoor activities, rich history, and cultural attractions.
Where to Stay: The Boar’s Head Resort is a luxurious option, located just minutes from downtown Charlottesville. There are many nearby nature trails to explore, as well as other outdoor activities like golfing.
Date Night Ideas: Visit Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, or take a scenic drive on Skyline Drive. For a romantic dinner, head to The Ivy Inn Restaurant, which offers an upscale locavore dining experience.
4. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a historic port city located in southeastern South Carolina. It’s known for its well-preserved architecture, as well as its beaches and golf courses. Charleston is the perfect place to enjoy the best of southern hospitality. While it’s the largest city in South Carolina, it’s still relatively small compared to other major cities and has a small-town feel.
Where to Stay: The Belmond Charleston Place is a luxurious option, offering views of Charleston Harbor from its rooms and suites.
Date Night Ideas: Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district, or visit Fort Sumter National Monument. For a romantic dinner, head to High Cotton, which offers a refined dining experience with live music daily.
5. Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is a little town located on Mount Desert Island in Maine. It’s known for its rocky coastline, as well as its proximity to Acadia National Park. There are plenty of things to do in Bar Harbor, from hiking and biking to whale watching and kayaking. But it’s definitely a picturesque small town USA.
Where to Stay: The Bar Harbor Inn is a popular choice for couples, offering views of Porcupine Bay. Make the most of your visit, and watch the weather forecast for the best time to visit. The colors of the fall foliage are the ideal time of year to see this town, and it’s less crowded than in the warmer months.
Date Night Ideas: Take a scenic drive on Park Loop Road, or hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline. For a romantic dinner, enjoy some of the freshest seafood in the United States at one of the many local restaurants.
6. Duluth, Minnesota
Duluth is a port city located on the shores of Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota. It’s known for its scenic natural beauty, as well as its many parks and trails. Duluth is the perfect place for couples who love the great outdoors.
Where to Stay: The Inn on Lake Superior is a popular choice for couples, offering views of the lake from its rooms and suites.
Date Night Ideas: Take a scenic drive on the North Shore Scenic Drive, or visit one of the many parks and trails in Duluth. For a romantic dinner, head to Va Bene, which offers an upscale dining experience right on the lake.
7. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Eureka Springs is a small town located in the Ozark Mountains of northwestern Arkansas. It’s known for its Victorian architecture, as well as its natural hot springs and hiking trails. Eureka Springs is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Ozarks.
Where to Stay: The Crescent Hotel is a charming choice for couples. The historic hotel was built in 1886 and has a spa, restaurants, and a swimming pool.
Date Night Ideas: Visit one of the mineral springs in Eureka Springs for a relaxing and intimate date night. For a romantic dinner, head to Rogue’s Manor, which offers fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere.
8. Frankenmuth, Michigan
Frankenmuth is a small town located in southeastern Michigan. It’s known for its Bavarian architecture and Christmas-themed attractions. Frankenmuth is the perfect place for couples who love the holidays, so it’s a great choice if you’re looking to have an intimate Christmas getaway.
Where to Stay: The Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn Lodge has 4 swimming pools, including one for adults only. There is also the Historic Downtown Chocolate Haus Apartment available for rent with 2 bedrooms and a spacious balcony.
Date Night Ideas: For a romantic dinner, head to The Bavarian Inn Restaurant, which offers an upscale dining experience. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, enjoy one of the many lights shows or go ice skating together.
9. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Where Gatlinburg may not be our top pick for romantic destinations, it is the gateway to one of the most beautiful National Parks for nature lovers. Gatlinburg is a small town located in the Great Smoky Mountains of eastern Tennessee. It’s known for its scenic beauty, as well as its many shops and restaurants. Gatlinburg is the perfect place for couples who love the outdoor adventures.
Where to Stay: Mountain Shadows Resort & Rentals is a popular choice for couples, with beautiful log homes available that include hot tubs, fully equipped kitchens, and other great amenities for couples seeking a love nest to escape to.
Date Night Ideas: Enjoy a romantic walk across the longest pedestrian Skybridge in North America and take in the beautiful mountain views and watching the fireflies dance through the rolling mists of the Smokies. There are other exciting outdoor activities nearby, like hiking and whitewater rafting. The Great Smoky Mountains are a dream for those looking to get outside.
Tips for Your Romantic Small Town Getaway
10. Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City is a small town located on the shores of Lake Michigan in northwestern Michigan. It’s known for its wineries—yes, wineries, as well as its scenic beaches and hiking trails. Traverse City is known as the cherry capital of the world and holds the National Cherry Festival each year.
Where to Stay: There are a number of short-term rentals downtown that are perfect for couples. Check availability on Airbnb or Vrbo.
11. Healdsburg, California
Healdsburg is a charming town located in Sonoma County, California. It’s known for its scenic beauty, as well as its many wineries and tasting rooms. Healdsburg is the perfect place for couples who love wine but don’t want to be in the center of Napa.
Where to Stay: The h2hotel is a popular choice for couples, offering views of the Russian River from its rooms and suites.
Date Night Ideas: Take a scenic drive on the Healdsburg Wine Country Scenic Drive, or visit one of the many wineries and tasting rooms in Healdsburg. For a romantic dinner, head to The Restaurant at Wente Vineyards, which offers an upscale dining experience.
12. Hood River, Oregon
Hood River is a small city located in the Columbia River Gorge in northwestern Oregon. It’s known for its scenic beauty, as well as its many shops and restaurants. Hood River offers great fishing and is home to a number of breweries and cideries.
Where to Stay: The Sakura Ridge Bed and Breakfast is a quiet stay located on an organic farm. There is also the Gorge View Bed and Breakfast close to downtown Hood River with shopping and restaurants nearby.
Date Night Ideas: Enjoy local delicious food at the Solstice Wood Fire Cafe and Bar or visit one of the area’s many orchards.
13. Amelia Island, Florida
Amelia Island is a small island located off the northeastern coast of Florida on the Atlantic Ocean. It’s known for its pristine beaches, as well as its golf courses and tennis facilities. Amelia Island is the perfect place for couples who love the beach.
Where to Stay: The Amelia Hotel at the Beach is a popular choice for couples, offering oceanfront rooms and suites.
Date Night Ideas: Take a scenic walk or horseback ride on the beach, or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of Amelia Island’s many restaurants.
14. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a small city located in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado. It’s a popular ski destination and is home to four ski resorts, perfect for winter or mountain biking in the summer. Aspen is also known for its luxury shops and restaurants.
Where to Stay: The St. Regis Aspen Resort is a popular choice for couples, offering stunning mountain views and luxurious accommodations.
Date Night Ideas: Take a gondola ride up Ajax Mountain, or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of Aspen’s many restaurants.
15. Montauk, New York
Montauk is a small town located on the eastern end of Long Island in southeastern New York. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, as well as its fishing and surfing. Montauk is the perfect place for couples who love the beach, with a similar – but more laid-back – vibe to the Hamptons.
Where to Stay: The Surf Lodge is a popular choice for couples, offering beachfront rooms and suites.
Date Night Ideas: Take a romantic walk on the beach, or to the Montauk Point Lighthouse for breathtaking views.
16. Taos, New Mexico
Taos is a small town located in the northern part of New Mexico. It’s known for its Pueblo-style architecture, as well as its art galleries and shops. It’s a perfect choice for artistic couples.
Where to Stay: The American Artists Gallery House Bed & Breakfast features beautiful artwork and impeccable service.
Date Night Ideas: Visit the Taos Pueblo, an ancient Native American village, or take a scenic drive on the High Road to Taos. For a romantic dinner, head to The Love Apple, which offers gourmet organic food.
17. Woodstock, Vermont
Woodstock is a small town located in central Vermont. It’s known for its picturesque setting, as well as its many shops and restaurants. Woodstock is the perfect place for couples who love the outdoors and want to experience the charm of New England.
Where to Stay: Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm is a lovely getaway for couples, offering beautiful views of the Vermont countryside.
Date Night Ideas: Visit one of the area’s many historic sites or museums, such as the Billings Farm & Museum. If you’re into outdoor recreation, plan a trip in winter for some amazing nearby cross-country skiing. For a romantic dinner, head to the Red Rooster Cafe, which offers farm-to-table cuisine.
18. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island is a small island located in Lake Huron off the coast of Michigan. It’s known for its Victorian-style architecture and beautiful sunset views. There’s also an exciting nightlife, making it a fun choice for couples who want to experience a little bit of everything.
Where to Stay: The Grand Hotel Mackinac Island is a popular choice for couples, offering stunning views of the island and Lake Huron. Each room is unique, with different decor for guests to enjoy.
Date Night Ideas: Enjoy live music and entertainment at Gate House in the Grand Hotel or at one of the many bars on the island.
Final Thoughts….
No matter what your interests are, there’s a small town in America that is perfect for a romantic getaway. From the beaches of Amelia Island to the ski resorts of Aspen, these charming towns offer something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a relaxing and romantic escape, consider planning your next romantic vacation in one of America’s most beautiful small towns.
Have you ever taken a romantic getaway with your partner? Tell us about it in the comments below!
Top small-town travel tip: Small towns may not have all the amenities and activities that big cities do, but that’s what makes them charming. Embrace the slower pace and be open to trying new things. You never know what unexpected (and romantic) adventures await!
